In the northern reaches of Birmingham, a dedicated team of volunteers is transforming their neighbourhoods one piece of litter at a time. The communities of Oscott and Great Barr are benefiting from the passionate efforts of local residents who have taken cleanliness into their own hands.
The Driving Force Behind the Cleanup
At the heart of this movement is Alex Hall, whose collaboration with Councillor Darius Sandhu has created a powerful community initiative. Together, they manage a popular Facebook page that serves dual purposes: updating residents on local news and coordinating their litter-picking campaigns.
"I can't decide where money goes. I can't vote on this policy. But what I can do is go out there in the community and just make it look a bit cleaner and tidier," Alex explained, highlighting the practical approach that drives his voluntary work.
What began as a simple desire to improve his local area has evolved into what he describes as a "bug" for tidying up his home turf. The Facebook page they maintain has attracted 1,800 followers, with many residents not just observing but actively participating in cleanup efforts.
Community Response and Engagement
The community's appreciation for their work is evident in the enthusiastic responses on social media. Following a recent litter-picking post, Kelly Adderley commented: "Thank you and well done," while Ron Roberts shared his gratitude through a GIF of Leonardo DiCaprio applauding.
Beyond organising cleanups, the page serves as an important information hub for north Birmingham residents. It provided crucial updates during recent torrential rain and delays on Aldridge Road, and keeps the community informed about questions being posed to Birmingham City Council.
Residents frequently use the platform to propose ideas, ask questions, or voice concerns, creating a dynamic two-way conversation between the organisers and the community they serve.
Deep Roots and Future Ambitions
Alex's connection to Oscott and Great Barr runs deep, describing the area as his "home" and drawing inspiration from its unique position on Birmingham's outskirts. "We're on the outskirts of this big, fantastic city, which means that I can get in my car and within an hour I'm in beautiful parts of Staffordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire," he shared.
He also appreciates the easy access to Birmingham's city centre, noting: "By a bus journey, a train journey, or a modest fee in an Uber, I'm right in the city centre of Birmingham, where there's fantastic cultural things, there's great sporting occasions."
Interestingly, the area's appeal even influenced his family life - after his mother saw Glenmead field, she agreed they could get a dog, leading to their current two canine companions.
Looking ahead, Alex plans to run for councillor next year, motivated by his regular walks with his dogs to focus on improving lighting in green spaces, alongside housing, transport, and outdoor facilities for children.
This grassroots movement demonstrates how individual initiative, when combined with community engagement and social media, can create meaningful change at the local level, proving that sometimes the most powerful transformations begin with something as simple as picking up litter.
